Burton poised to return to Executive Council

MILTON — Results showed Republican incumbent Ray Burton in the lead for the Executive Council District 1 seat, over his democratic opponent Beth Funicella.

In Milton, Burton had 967 votes compared to Funicella’s 853, 382 in Middleton compared to Funicella’s 309 and in Wakefield, 1,351 to 827. In New Durham, Burton had 782 votes and Funicella had 544. WMUR results showed Burton retaining 57 percent of the vote compared to Funicella’s 38 with all 116 precincts reports.

Burton also faced Libertarian candidate Howard Wilson, who took 148 votes in Milton and 135 in Wakefield, for a point of comparison. WMUR reported Wilson had 5 percent of the vote by the end of election night on Tuesday.

Burton, 73, of Bath, is an adjunct professor at Springfield College in Vermont. He previously told Foster’s he wishes to be re-elected to ensure more people are involved in state government. He strives to make the state congressional delegation “do more for northern New Hampshire towns, cities and counties.” He is also strongly supportive of the hospitality, tourist and outdoor recreation industry.

In response to his winning the election, Burton told Foster’s on Wednesday he was very pleased.

“I’m really happy that I was successful in the general election yesterday, representing now 108 towns and four cities across all our parts of New Hampshire’s seven northern counties. Those newer towns include Milton, Middleton, New Durham and Brookfield” he said, referencing the new redistricting. “I commend everybody who got out and voted and certainly the percentage list was very high.”

He added he will soon work with the new governor Maggie Hassan, who beat out Republican Ovide Lamontagne in the gubernatorial race.

“I’m looking forward to working with Governor Hassan and the new members of Executive Council in bringing forth ideas that will assist people in day to day living experiences,” Burton said.